Very nice setup ! But i have 2 questions , what kind of things are u plugin into it ? and if u charge the batteries during the day. How long will your setup last at night if u had a tv going, along with a few other appliences ? im very interested in your solar setup .
@jmnic63 Thanks for your comments and questions. This is an old video and I've expanded quite a bit. However, I've answered a similar question or comment in the comments section of this video, in response to @OldTroll11 below. The response shows you an example of how to calculate runtimes of various items when using battery power. My latest videos show my expanded system. Take Care.
@pennvloger Panels, wire, and charge controller from wholesalesolar(dot)com, AGM batteries from different sources. You can get good inverters from theinverterstore(dot)com. For cheaper panels check out sunelec(dot)com, ecodirect(dot)com may also has some good deals for you. You can battery cables from any autoparts store. 10 AWG wire can be obtained from hardware stores. Battery monitors from Amazon or eBay.
Why wouldn't you just wire the solar cells in series to obtain 12Vdc. And then connect the 12Vdc cells in parallel to get more current output to charge your batteries? Seems like a waste to go from 36Vdc and step down (power loss) to 12Vdc.
@mikestan167 When considering how to wire your panels, you must consider panel voltage, wire gauge, distance from the CC and the type of CC being used. My 12v panels use 10AWG wire that is more than 30' away from the CC, which gives more than a 5% voltage drop, making parallel wiring impractical. A series wiring with an MPPT CC works much better in this case by it using an internal DC to DC converter to use excess voltage to increase amps giving the same benefit as parallel wiring.
How many years can your batteries last? 5years? I'm very sure those batteries are pretty damn expensive. The money you saved from the grid may not cover the cost of your system in 5 years. Add up the material cost and labor cost (your time is money), this project is actually saving your electricity bill? or just for fun?
@LeeMK2 Thank you for your comments, I've been asked those types of questions before and I just made a video explaining why I build my system and showing a brief demonstration of what my expanded system can do. It's called "DIY-Home Solar-Why do it and What can it power?" This is an old video and my current system is much bigger than this one. But in short, my system is not save money on electric, it's for emergency prep. See my new video, it'll explain it all. Take Care.
@gregoryscottsr Thank you for your question. No this system could not run a welder. This is a small backup system geared towards typical household items such as lights, microwaves, tv's, stereos, etc. From what I understand, a welder requires a considerable amount of power and I believe you would need an equivalent amount (x2) of panels\batteries to support it. Take Care.
@rhandsom And this set up would only be enough to run one at a time for a short time. It might get you through for lighting alone IF you were to use the new LED Bulbs
@OldTroll11 Actually, this system can run lighting such as lamps with CFL or LEDs. Runtime can be calculated using watts, I.e., ((55*4)*12)=2640w. (2640w * .80 =2112w of usuable power). 2112w / 13w (bulb) = 162hrs. 2112w / 125w (TV/DVR)=16.89hrs. 2112w / 100w (Compact Freezer)=21.12hrs. Just a few examples.
@gregoryscottsr also you would need a VERY big inverter to run a welder now you can take about 3 battery and make it where you get about 30+ volts and use that to weld with in place
@Yanglike Wind turbines are great if you live in area where the amount of annual wind statistically will justify the expense. In my location I can't justify the added expense.
@rhandsom Ahah ok I got it. Thanx a lot for your precious advices. Im checking the website you gave me and I will probably find what I need there :) I will post my videos when Im set ;) regards
@Yanglike Thanks for your comments. Actually, I've expanded the system quite a bit. But this particular system was capable of running things like TV's, entertainment systems, microwaves, A compact Freezer, lights (I have a lot of LEDs), etc. With solar you must practice energy conversation and run only essentials. My current system is tied into our home, which allows me to run the entire house in the event of a power outage as a backup system, but my office is sometimes off the grid.
@rhandsom Hi there. I noticed your other videos after my post sorry! I will start my system basic like this one first to get used to how it works because your other setup is too complicated for a newbie like me... Do you recommend some specific brands for batteries and charge controllers ? thanx a lot for your response. I really appreciate.
@Yanglike For panels I recommend going to sunelec(dot)com, they have good high wattage panels at very reasonable prices. I also recommend Mourningstar brand charge controllers. For batteries it's a toss up. I like the AGM's because of their advantages of being sealed, not out gassing hydrogen during charging, temperature resistance etc., but pricey. Any traditional high amp (115A+) flooded batteries will work just as well. Trojan, Optima, Werker, Kirkland (Costco Brand) or any will do.
@rhandsom dont let the agm' get cold....they dont like it one bit. Why havent people started scavenging the battery bank out of hybrid cars for there home rigs?
Is it possible to insall a solar panal on a vehicle? I drive a dark car through the desert in the summer, and my car gets well over 100 degrees. Do you think I could accomplish this somehow?
@HappyGuitarGuy Yes, it's possible to mount a solar panel on the roof of a vehicle. Using a "roof rack" similar to those used for luggage, ski's, etc, you could feasibly mount a medium sized panel to the roof of your car and run the wires to a charge controller and battery(s) in your trunk. It's a matter of direct sunlight hitting the panel, in the desert you shouldn't have a problem. Depending on the type of roof rack, you would need some type of clamping mechanism to secure it.
@PianoPassionMusic Thanks for your question. I use sealed AGM batteries and do not vent hydrogen when being charged and are generally safe to use indoors. However, flooded batteries vent hydrogen while being charged and require adequate ventilation. However, I believe they should be fine in a garage or basement setting with enough open space and good ventilation, etc. AGM batteries cost more but I don't have venting, maintenance, or temperature issues. Take Care
@RamonSmit Thanks for your comments, but I think there is a bit of confusion on your part, the video shows a battery bank with 4 12v batteries connected in Parallel, see all of the red & black cables connected together. If they were in series, the battery monitor would read 52v (13 x 4) instead of 13v. Series wiring increases "voltage", parallel wiring increases "amperage", which in this case increases capacity. 55ah x 4 = 220ah at 12v. The panels are wired in series. Take Care.
Hey buds,i'm planning to build this set up and thanks for putting this up,my question is,can i use scooter batteries instead of car batteries for portability?
@K3vindust Actually, if your scooter battery is a "deep cycle" battery your good to go. Never use ordinary car batteries or any battery that's not a Deep Cycle battery. For portable systems search youtube for this video for ideas. "Step by Step: How I Built A Solar Generator For Less Than $300" and to see how I use mine with "DIY - Portable Solar Power - The Practical Freezer Test - PART 1". You can see it on my channel. Take Care.
the 1 thing i dont like about it that you can only run so much time on solar power what if you ran a manegtic and generator to the invertor to have power all the time all the time
@skullin67 Thanks for your comments. I've seen some videos talking about magnetic generators, but not any that show it connected to power appliances in the house. They show potential, but I'm looking for the practical at this point. Take Care.
@IIDASHII Thanks for your comments. I now have 2 Grid Tie Inverters for that purpose. Also, this is an older video. See my channel for the latest ones. Take Care.
@honestcheetah That depends on the wattage and voltage requirements of the system. A small backup system such as this is mainly geared for things such as lights, stereo, TV, fans, computers, communications, and\or a microwave. The "on demand" systems I've researched require 240VAC and between 12kW - 19kW to run, you would more than likely need a bigger battery bank with higher amp capacity to support it. Also, an inverter that would support the voltage\wattage requirements.
@Facestomper666 The system was designed to eventually be as close as professional grade as possible. Over a few months I've expanded the system to include additional components. This was not to see how cheap I could make it. This was only the beginning, this is an old video, now I have a system comparable to any commercial system at half the price. Also, with the 30% tax credit the total cost was even less. Now I can power my entire house safely, without extension cords or fumes. Take Care.
@Facestomper666 Definitely not a waste of time. I enjoyed every minute of doing the research and putting it together. In the beginning I didn't know anything, now I can share the knowledge with others. Yes, generally batteries last 6 years, however, if you buy good Deep Cycle flooded batteries, it may be possible to recondition them after the 6 years, if necessary. This reconditioning may give you an extra 2 to 3 years. Google, "Battery Reconditioning" and you'll see what I mean. Take Care.
Why would anyone want to step down 36VDC to 12VDC when 3 batteries in series are 36VDC as well? This way you are introducing unnecessary losses which could be avoided quite easily.
@hobbyguy Thanks for your comments. If using PWM charge controllers it wouldn't make since. However, The Mourningstar MPPT charge controllers work best when there is a large voltage difference. They utilize a DC to DC conversion circuit and use the excess voltage to charge the batteries faster, ie., they will convert the power coming in so that the voltage is lower and the amps are higher, while maintaining the (watts in = watts out) rule. MPPT's work best at higher voltage differences. Thanks.
@rhandsom Hmm... maybe it's my preference for high voltage systems :-) Low amps and high voltages keep my system as low loss as possible and I can use rather thin cabling with proper insulation.
@serij800 Actually this is one of my earlier videos. However, when the the Mourning Star 15A MPPTs are installed in a 12v system the power from the panels are limited to 200W. With that it's 200w / 12v = 16.6A. That's one of the reasons my system is now a 24v System with 4 panels, totaling 670w, with a 3000w inverter and dual mppt charge controllers. See my channel for the latest videos. I've expanded quite a bit.
@elcomandante31able That depends on the type of monitor you have. The monitor should come with detailed instructions that are specific to your system. In my case, the G1,G2 wire is connected to one side of the shunt, the SIG is connected to the other. The positive lead is connected to the same positive terminal on the battery as the positive leads of the Charge Controller and the Inverter. Take Care.
Finally I found someone that wants to hook this type system into a transfer switch..This is what I want to do but didnt know if its possible. I want to just run my house lighting which is a small house all LED 40 watt bulbs. And maybe a few outlets. How did your transfer switch come out? Do you have a video on it? Thanks!
@firehawk71 Actually this is one of my earlier videos. My current system is tied into the transfer switch and Interlocked from there into the main panel with an Interlock Kit to backfeed electricity from my solar generator to all of my home's 110 outlets and fixtures. The videos on my channel show the progression and setup. On a couple I've attached schematics. The system works fine. Take care.
great job, i'm in the middle of moving to a new house that my wife and i just bought, i am going to build a solar power system after i get possesion. i do plan on installing a transfer switch aswell to power specific items in the house. anyways just wanted to say good job!!!!
When I removed the frame from the window ( a composite aluminun) the double pane glass is rigid and obviously, by virture of its use as a window, should be stron enough to face any element. The only problem I see is that they are heavy! Doc
@nyc347347 You may be right in that they maybe sturdy enough to face things like hail or other flying debris. Without seeing them I can only assume. The weight can be dealt with by mounting them on a sturdy pole or other suitable mounting structure. I have 4 panels that are easily 40+ lbs each. The double pane is the only other issue I have questions about, if you can sandwich the cells between the double pane it'll handle high temps well. To put the cells under 2 panes may decrease your power.
one quick question...I recently found some double hung aluminum framed windows. These are the kind that have double glass ( usually gas between them) CAN I USE THIS KIND OF GLASS FOR A SOLAR PANEL? Doc
@nyc347347 Tempered glass is the only glass I would recommend if building your own solar panels, if your going to keep them exposed to the elements. There are many people that use regular glass, plexy, lexan, etc., but if you want something that will last and stand half a chance against the elements, use tempered glass instead. When I tried building my own, I used Lexan with disappointing results. Granted, I didn't know much about what I was doing, but disappointing results all the same.
Thanks for a very understandable presentation. I'm with out on perfecting a great system. WE WILL be without electric from this point on in our countries history. Thanks Doc
@DarwinsFriend I respect your opinion but please understand, when i was designing this system, I didn't care and still don't care about "payback" or anything of the kind. As an Engineer I was concerned about building a quality system, piece by piece, for the safety, security, and well being of my family. And that my friend is worth the price of quality batteries and other equipment. I didn't get into solar for financial gain, going without power for 7 days will make you think. Take Care.
@DarwinsFriend In April of this year I saw the greatest tornado outbreak in history. Gas was scarce or non-existent. No pumps = no gas. When fuel was available it took almost a dozen officers to keep the peace. Even then you were limited to a small amount. Many had to travel miles to get only five gals. Generators are great when fuel is available. We lost alot of food during that time, some lost more. Some were out of power for as much as ten days or more. Take Care.
The monitor is a TM2020 Tri-Metric Battery System Monitor. Price: $139.00 from bestconverter. Works really well. Thanks for the comment. You can probably get the monitor for cheaper on ebay.
Very nice setup ! But i have 2 questions , what kind of things are u plugin into it ? and if u charge the batteries during the day. How long will your setup last at night if u had a tv going, along with a few other appliences ? im very interested in your solar setup .
jmnic63 6 days ago
@jmnic63 Thanks for your comments and questions. This is an old video and I've expanded quite a bit. However, I've answered a similar question or comment in the comments section of this video, in response to @OldTroll11 below. The response shows you an example of how to calculate runtimes of various items when using battery power. My latest videos show my expanded system. Take Care.
rhandsom 6 days ago
great system! where did you get your supplies?? i want to duplicate it! thanks edv
pennvloger 1 week ago
@pennvloger Panels, wire, and charge controller from wholesalesolar(dot)com, AGM batteries from different sources. You can get good inverters from theinverterstore(dot)com. For cheaper panels check out sunelec(dot)com, ecodirect(dot)com may also has some good deals for you. You can battery cables from any autoparts store. 10 AWG wire can be obtained from hardware stores. Battery monitors from Amazon or eBay.
rhandsom 1 week ago
need 4more battarys
jcb570 2 weeks ago
@jcb570 Actually, this is an older video I now have 12 batteries.
rhandsom 2 weeks ago
Why wouldn't you just wire the solar cells in series to obtain 12Vdc. And then connect the 12Vdc cells in parallel to get more current output to charge your batteries? Seems like a waste to go from 36Vdc and step down (power loss) to 12Vdc.
mikestan167 2 weeks ago
@mikestan167 When considering how to wire your panels, you must consider panel voltage, wire gauge, distance from the CC and the type of CC being used. My 12v panels use 10AWG wire that is more than 30' away from the CC, which gives more than a 5% voltage drop, making parallel wiring impractical. A series wiring with an MPPT CC works much better in this case by it using an internal DC to DC converter to use excess voltage to increase amps giving the same benefit as parallel wiring.
rhandsom 2 weeks ago
How many years can your batteries last? 5years? I'm very sure those batteries are pretty damn expensive. The money you saved from the grid may not cover the cost of your system in 5 years. Add up the material cost and labor cost (your time is money), this project is actually saving your electricity bill? or just for fun?
LeeMK2 3 weeks ago
@LeeMK2 Thank you for your comments, I've been asked those types of questions before and I just made a video explaining why I build my system and showing a brief demonstration of what my expanded system can do. It's called "DIY-Home Solar-Why do it and What can it power?" This is an old video and my current system is much bigger than this one. But in short, my system is not save money on electric, it's for emergency prep. See my new video, it'll explain it all. Take Care.
rhandsom 3 weeks ago
This might sound like a stupid question but could you run a welder with this?
gregoryscottsr 3 weeks ago
@gregoryscottsr Thank you for your question. No this system could not run a welder. This is a small backup system geared towards typical household items such as lights, microwaves, tv's, stereos, etc. From what I understand, a welder requires a considerable amount of power and I believe you would need an equivalent amount (x2) of panels\batteries to support it. Take Care.
rhandsom 3 weeks ago
@rhandsom And this set up would only be enough to run one at a time for a short time. It might get you through for lighting alone IF you were to use the new LED Bulbs
OldTroll11 2 weeks ago
@OldTroll11 Actually, this system can run lighting such as lamps with CFL or LEDs. Runtime can be calculated using watts, I.e., ((55*4)*12)=2640w. (2640w * .80 =2112w of usuable power). 2112w / 13w (bulb) = 162hrs. 2112w / 125w (TV/DVR)=16.89hrs. 2112w / 100w (Compact Freezer)=21.12hrs. Just a few examples.
rhandsom 2 weeks ago
@gregoryscottsr also you would need a VERY big inverter to run a welder now you can take about 3 battery and make it where you get about 30+ volts and use that to weld with in place
N4ANE 2 weeks ago
Good video...
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The only option you have is to Build Your own Solar Panels
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JohnSmith18989 4 weeks ago 4
All right. I will follow your advice.
I was also wondering if you have tried hooking a wind turbine to your system too ?
Yanglike 1 month ago
@Yanglike Wind turbines are great if you live in area where the amount of annual wind statistically will justify the expense. In my location I can't justify the added expense.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@rhandsom Ahah ok I got it. Thanx a lot for your precious advices. Im checking the website you gave me and I will probably find what I need there :) I will post my videos when Im set ;) regards
Yanglike 1 month ago
Wow I like your setup. I guess you are not 100% off grid with this system but how many appliances or lights do you connect to your batteries so far ?
Yanglike 1 month ago
@Yanglike Thanks for your comments. Actually, I've expanded the system quite a bit. But this particular system was capable of running things like TV's, entertainment systems, microwaves, A compact Freezer, lights (I have a lot of LEDs), etc. With solar you must practice energy conversation and run only essentials. My current system is tied into our home, which allows me to run the entire house in the event of a power outage as a backup system, but my office is sometimes off the grid.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@rhandsom Hi there. I noticed your other videos after my post sorry! I will start my system basic like this one first to get used to how it works because your other setup is too complicated for a newbie like me... Do you recommend some specific brands for batteries and charge controllers ? thanx a lot for your response. I really appreciate.
Yanglike 1 month ago
@Yanglike For panels I recommend going to sunelec(dot)com, they have good high wattage panels at very reasonable prices. I also recommend Mourningstar brand charge controllers. For batteries it's a toss up. I like the AGM's because of their advantages of being sealed, not out gassing hydrogen during charging, temperature resistance etc., but pricey. Any traditional high amp (115A+) flooded batteries will work just as well. Trojan, Optima, Werker, Kirkland (Costco Brand) or any will do.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@rhandsom dont let the agm' get cold....they dont like it one bit. Why havent people started scavenging the battery bank out of hybrid cars for there home rigs?
Duckyistrippin 1 month ago
@Duckyistrippin Thanks for your comments. I think the hybrid car technology is too new for scavenging just now.
rhandsom 1 month ago
PLEASE RESPOND:
Is it possible to insall a solar panal on a vehicle? I drive a dark car through the desert in the summer, and my car gets well over 100 degrees. Do you think I could accomplish this somehow?
HappyGuitarGuy 1 month ago
@HappyGuitarGuy Yes, it's possible to mount a solar panel on the roof of a vehicle. Using a "roof rack" similar to those used for luggage, ski's, etc, you could feasibly mount a medium sized panel to the roof of your car and run the wires to a charge controller and battery(s) in your trunk. It's a matter of direct sunlight hitting the panel, in the desert you shouldn't have a problem. Depending on the type of roof rack, you would need some type of clamping mechanism to secure it.
rhandsom 1 month ago
Is it safe to have batteries in the house? I want to build a setup like this but my only concern is battery placement.
PianoPassionMusic 1 month ago
@PianoPassionMusic Thanks for your question. I use sealed AGM batteries and do not vent hydrogen when being charged and are generally safe to use indoors. However, flooded batteries vent hydrogen while being charged and require adequate ventilation. However, I believe they should be fine in a garage or basement setting with enough open space and good ventilation, etc. AGM batteries cost more but I don't have venting, maintenance, or temperature issues. Take Care
rhandsom 1 month ago
They are connected in series :P not parralel :)
RamonSmit 1 month ago
@RamonSmit Thanks for your comments, but I think there is a bit of confusion on your part, the video shows a battery bank with 4 12v batteries connected in Parallel, see all of the red & black cables connected together. If they were in series, the battery monitor would read 52v (13 x 4) instead of 13v. Series wiring increases "voltage", parallel wiring increases "amperage", which in this case increases capacity. 55ah x 4 = 220ah at 12v. The panels are wired in series. Take Care.
rhandsom 1 month ago
Hey buds,i'm planning to build this set up and thanks for putting this up,my question is,can i use scooter batteries instead of car batteries for portability?
K3vindust 1 month ago
@K3vindust Actually, if your scooter battery is a "deep cycle" battery your good to go. Never use ordinary car batteries or any battery that's not a Deep Cycle battery. For portable systems search youtube for this video for ideas. "Step by Step: How I Built A Solar Generator For Less Than $300" and to see how I use mine with "DIY - Portable Solar Power - The Practical Freezer Test - PART 1". You can see it on my channel. Take Care.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@rhandsom I will look into that buds,thanks a lot for the heads up.
K3vindust 1 month ago
the 1 thing i dont like about it that you can only run so much time on solar power what if you ran a manegtic and generator to the invertor to have power all the time all the time
skullin67 1 month ago
@skullin67 Thanks for your comments. I've seen some videos talking about magnetic generators, but not any that show it connected to power appliances in the house. They show potential, but I'm looking for the practical at this point. Take Care.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@IIDASHII Thanks for your comments. I now have 2 Grid Tie Inverters for that purpose. Also, this is an older video. See my channel for the latest ones. Take Care.
rhandsom 1 month ago
yeah mate more batteries n youre tip top
LOPEZdJUNGLIST 1 month ago
@LOPEZdJUNGLIST More batteries is always good.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@rhandsom can I run my computer with a system like this? my PC has a 450 watts PSU and the LCD monitor consumes 90 watts
LXBD 1 month ago
@LXBD Hello, lets calculate (4 batteries x 55ah = 220ah), (220ah x 12v = 2640w), (2640w * .80 "Depth of Discharge " = 2112w), (2112w / 540w = 3.9hrs running time.)
rhandsom 1 month ago
Hi. Can you run an on demand water heater with pump on this system?
honestcheetah 1 month ago
@honestcheetah That depends on the wattage and voltage requirements of the system. A small backup system such as this is mainly geared for things such as lights, stereo, TV, fans, computers, communications, and\or a microwave. The "on demand" systems I've researched require 240VAC and between 12kW - 19kW to run, you would more than likely need a bigger battery bank with higher amp capacity to support it. Also, an inverter that would support the voltage\wattage requirements.
rhandsom 1 month ago
@Facestomper666 The system was designed to eventually be as close as professional grade as possible. Over a few months I've expanded the system to include additional components. This was not to see how cheap I could make it. This was only the beginning, this is an old video, now I have a system comparable to any commercial system at half the price. Also, with the 30% tax credit the total cost was even less. Now I can power my entire house safely, without extension cords or fumes. Take Care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
@rhandsom maybe not as much of a waste as i thought i may do some research on all this but the batteries are only good for about 6 years
Facestomper666 2 months ago
@Facestomper666 Definitely not a waste of time. I enjoyed every minute of doing the research and putting it together. In the beginning I didn't know anything, now I can share the knowledge with others. Yes, generally batteries last 6 years, however, if you buy good Deep Cycle flooded batteries, it may be possible to recondition them after the 6 years, if necessary. This reconditioning may give you an extra 2 to 3 years. Google, "Battery Reconditioning" and you'll see what I mean. Take Care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
@rhandsom nice man, ftw aka those greedy bastards at the power companys
Facestomper666 2 months ago
Why would anyone want to step down 36VDC to 12VDC when 3 batteries in series are 36VDC as well? This way you are introducing unnecessary losses which could be avoided quite easily.
hobbyguy 2 months ago
@hobbyguy Thanks for your comments. If using PWM charge controllers it wouldn't make since. However, The Mourningstar MPPT charge controllers work best when there is a large voltage difference. They utilize a DC to DC conversion circuit and use the excess voltage to charge the batteries faster, ie., they will convert the power coming in so that the voltage is lower and the amps are higher, while maintaining the (watts in = watts out) rule. MPPT's work best at higher voltage differences. Thanks.
rhandsom 2 months ago
@rhandsom Hmm... maybe it's my preference for high voltage systems :-) Low amps and high voltages keep my system as low loss as possible and I can use rather thin cabling with proper insulation.
Keep up the good work! :-)
hobbyguy 2 months ago
@hobbyguy I agree with you, higher voltage systems are much more efficient. Take Care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
Hi, 270 watt divided by half full battery charge voltage 12v equals 22.5 Amps to the battery, with only 15A MPPT ? is mppt still working ?
serij800 2 months ago
@serij800 Actually this is one of my earlier videos. However, when the the Mourning Star 15A MPPTs are installed in a 12v system the power from the panels are limited to 200W. With that it's 200w / 12v = 16.6A. That's one of the reasons my system is now a 24v System with 4 panels, totaling 670w, with a 3000w inverter and dual mppt charge controllers. See my channel for the latest videos. I've expanded quite a bit.
rhandsom 2 months ago
thanks for the information i only have 210 watt solar panel with a agm deep cyble battery and a 1500 watt inverter so im learning
thanks again
elcomandante31able 2 months ago
@elcomandante31able That's an excellent start, for a backup system that's good.
rhandsom 2 months ago
Thanks! Yea helped me develop ideas to power a few things in my rural school.
dascool15 2 months ago
@dascool15 Your welcome, hope things work out. Take Care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
hi nice video how you conect the battery monitor from the battery ?
elcomandante31able 2 months ago
@elcomandante31able That depends on the type of monitor you have. The monitor should come with detailed instructions that are specific to your system. In my case, the G1,G2 wire is connected to one side of the shunt, the SIG is connected to the other. The positive lead is connected to the same positive terminal on the battery as the positive leads of the Charge Controller and the Inverter. Take Care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
Finally I found someone that wants to hook this type system into a transfer switch..This is what I want to do but didnt know if its possible. I want to just run my house lighting which is a small house all LED 40 watt bulbs. And maybe a few outlets. How did your transfer switch come out? Do you have a video on it? Thanks!
firehawk71 2 months ago
@firehawk71 Actually this is one of my earlier videos. My current system is tied into the transfer switch and Interlocked from there into the main panel with an Interlock Kit to backfeed electricity from my solar generator to all of my home's 110 outlets and fixtures. The videos on my channel show the progression and setup. On a couple I've attached schematics. The system works fine. Take care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
nice set up, will attempt one next year.
smoothdancer33 2 months ago
@smoothdancer33 Thanks for the comments. Hope to see some vids from you. Take care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
thanks dude you just helped me save about 1000 dollar a year ^^ this is a smart idé
crasy4lifes 2 months ago
@crasy4lifes Glad it helped you. Take care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
you have helped me thank you
shelladavis 2 months ago
@shelladavis Glad I could be of some help. Take Care.
rhandsom 2 months ago
I'm still in "learning mode" -- please, what limits you to 4 batteries?
Thanks in advance! SP2
ShePreps2 2 months ago
@ShePreps2 This is an older video, I'm actually up to 12 now. I was building the battery bank little by little. See my latest videos for more info.
rhandsom 2 months ago
@rhandsom Beautiful! Thank you for sharing. I'll check it out.
ShePreps2 2 months ago
great job, i'm in the middle of moving to a new house that my wife and i just bought, i am going to build a solar power system after i get possesion. i do plan on installing a transfer switch aswell to power specific items in the house. anyways just wanted to say good job!!!!
jonathanspindler 3 months ago
@jonathanspindler Thanks, I'm glad to be able to share what I've learned.
rhandsom 3 months ago
When I removed the frame from the window ( a composite aluminun) the double pane glass is rigid and obviously, by virture of its use as a window, should be stron enough to face any element. The only problem I see is that they are heavy! Doc
nyc347347 3 months ago
@nyc347347 You may be right in that they maybe sturdy enough to face things like hail or other flying debris. Without seeing them I can only assume. The weight can be dealt with by mounting them on a sturdy pole or other suitable mounting structure. I have 4 panels that are easily 40+ lbs each. The double pane is the only other issue I have questions about, if you can sandwich the cells between the double pane it'll handle high temps well. To put the cells under 2 panes may decrease your power.
rhandsom 3 months ago
one quick question...I recently found some double hung aluminum framed windows. These are the kind that have double glass ( usually gas between them) CAN I USE THIS KIND OF GLASS FOR A SOLAR PANEL? Doc
nyc347347 3 months ago
@nyc347347 Tempered glass is the only glass I would recommend if building your own solar panels, if your going to keep them exposed to the elements. There are many people that use regular glass, plexy, lexan, etc., but if you want something that will last and stand half a chance against the elements, use tempered glass instead. When I tried building my own, I used Lexan with disappointing results. Granted, I didn't know much about what I was doing, but disappointing results all the same.
rhandsom 3 months ago
Thanks for a very understandable presentation. I'm with out on perfecting a great system. WE WILL be without electric from this point on in our countries history. Thanks Doc
nyc347347 3 months ago
@nyc347347 Thanks for the comments. Just want to share the knowledge. Take Care.
rhandsom 3 months ago
$219 each for the blue-tops? Oh yeah - pay back in what, 2035? LMAO!
DarwinsFriend 3 months ago
@DarwinsFriend I respect your opinion but please understand, when i was designing this system, I didn't care and still don't care about "payback" or anything of the kind. As an Engineer I was concerned about building a quality system, piece by piece, for the safety, security, and well being of my family. And that my friend is worth the price of quality batteries and other equipment. I didn't get into solar for financial gain, going without power for 7 days will make you think. Take Care.
rhandsom 3 months ago
@rhandsom ...going without power for 7 days will make you think...
Yeah - that's why my Honda generator is in my garage. ;-)
DarwinsFriend 3 months ago
@DarwinsFriend In April of this year I saw the greatest tornado outbreak in history. Gas was scarce or non-existent. No pumps = no gas. When fuel was available it took almost a dozen officers to keep the peace. Even then you were limited to a small amount. Many had to travel miles to get only five gals. Generators are great when fuel is available. We lost alot of food during that time, some lost more. Some were out of power for as much as ten days or more. Take Care.
rhandsom 3 months ago
@rhandsom ...In April of this year I saw the greatest tornado outbreak in history...
So your solar panel assembly is tornado proof? Really? I stand corrected. Where do I buy?
DarwinsFriend 3 months ago
@DarwinsFriend Peace and good will to you. Take care.
rhandsom 3 months ago
Electrical Installations should not be mounted on a wooden panel.
MucusFelidae 4 months ago
@MucusFelidae Probably, but with a system designed for safety, the risk of fire is minimal.
rhandsom 4 months ago
where you get the inverter?
fernandooka98 5 months ago
@fernandooka98 I got my new inverter on-line from the Inverter Store.
rhandsom 5 months ago
@greg2000ad Thanks, we're very thankful to have it.
rhandsom 6 months ago
@greg2000ad
The monitor is a TM2020 Tri-Metric Battery System Monitor. Price: $139.00 from bestconverter. Works really well. Thanks for the comment. You can probably get the monitor for cheaper on ebay.
rhandsom 9 months ago